The Dodgers have officially designated left-handed pitcher Ted Lilly for assignment Thursday, the team announced via Twitter. Updating the earlier item, Mark Saxon of ESPNLA adds that the move comes as a result of a disagreement on whether or not Lilly would head to the minor leagues to adjust to a relief role.
Lilly,37, acquired during the Frank McCourt era, has pitched in the majors since 1999, doing so for the Expos, Yankees, Athletics, Blue Jays, Cubs and Dodgers. As recently as 2011, Lilly pitched nearly 200 innings with an ERA of 3.97, but lately has been plagued by injuries and ineffectiveness. Lilly departs the Dodgers with an ERA of 5.09 in five starts this season for the Dodgers.
To fill Lilly’s roster spot, the Dodgers have recalled utility player Elian Herrera from Triple-A Albuquerque. Herrera, 28, has played in three games for the Dodgers this season. At Triple-A, he had a batting line of .290/.375/.384. I’m thrilled about the call-up, Herrera provides some versatility to the Dodgers offense and has tremendous heart. The little spark plug should immediately bolster the Dodgers bench, and wouldn’t be surprised if he gets a few starts in the infield.
The Dodgers’ acquisition of Ricky Nolasco filled the fifth rotation spot, displaced Lilly out of the rotation for good. With Chris Capuano doing his thing and Stephen Fife beginning rehab for a shoulder injury,Lilly’s time as a Dodger comes to an inevitable end. Obviously there was no way for the Dodgers to trade Lilly at this point, but I wouldn’t be surprised if a team like the Yankees doesn’t give him a chance.
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